Why Do Florist Quotes Vary So Much? Here's What You're Really Paying For…

If you’ve ever shopped around for floral quotes—especially for a wedding or event—you may have noticed something surprising: prices can vary a lot from one florist to another. One quote might come in at $1,500, another at $3,500 for what seems like a similar setup. So, what gives?

The truth is, there are many reasons florist quotes can differ, and understanding them can help you make a confident, informed choice.

1. Flower Quality and Sourcing

Not all flowers are created equal. A good florist uses premium blooms sourced from top growers, they know exactly how to prep and look after the flowers to have them at the right stage and looking their best for your special day.

Higher-end flowers:

• Last longer

Florists who prioritize quality will price accordingly, and for good reason—it shows in the final product.

2. Seasonality and Flower Types

If your vision includes Peonies in March or Ranunculus in January, and you live in New Zealand, you’d be hard out of luck! You're not likely to get out-of-season flowers; they simply aren’t around (maybe consider faux flowers if it has sentimental value for you).

Florists who suggest in-season alternatives may offer more affordable quotes, while others who promise specific out-of-season blooms may charge a premium for the extra effort.

3. Design Complexity and Labor

Floral design isn’t just arranging flowers in a vase—it’s a highly skilled craft. Quotes will vary depending on:

• Intricacy of the designs (e.g., hand-wired bouquets vs. loose arrangements)

• Number of custom installations (arches, hanging florals, floral walls)

• Amount of labor required, including on-site setup and teardown

Florists who provide full-service design often factor in hours of prep, travel, and execution. Simpler quotes may reflect less complex services or limited setup.

4. Experience and Reputation

Established florists with a strong portfolio, glowing reviews, and years in the industry may charge more than newer or less experienced designers. You’re paying not just for flowers, but for reliability, professionalism, and peace of mind— especially important for big events like weddings.

5. Service Level and Customization

Are you getting a fully personalized experience, or choosing from a fixed menu of packages? Florists who offer:

• Tailored consultations

• Custom mood boards

• Venue walkthroughs

• Coordinated delivery and teardown

…will naturally charge more than those offering basic, a la carte services. The more hands-on and curated the experience, the higher the cost—but also, often, the higher the value.

6. Logistics and Hidden Costs

Many people overlook the logistical side of floral work, but it matters. Quotes may differ due to:

• Distance to the venue

• Set-up times

• Rental fees for items like vases, candles, or arches

• Staffing needs for large events

A florist who includes all of these details in a transparent quote may seem more expensive at first glance—but they’re likely saving you from surprise fees down the road.

7. Scale and Volume

Lastly, not every florist is operating at the same scale. A large floral studio with a team, warehouse space, and inventory will price differently than a solo designer working out of a home studio. Both have their strengths, but the overhead and resources can affect pricing.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About the Price

When comparing florist quotes, don’t just look at the bottom line—look at what’s included. A higher quote may reflect:

• Better flowers

• More customized design

• More experienced handling

• Smoother execution on event day

Instead of asking “Why is this one more expensive?”, a better question might be: “What value am I getting for this price?”

Flowers are often one of the most photographed and emotionally memorable parts of a wedding or event, so investing in the right florist is worth it.